Colds

Question 1

Who has more colds every year - adults or children?

Answer 1

Children ~12 a year

Question 2

Referral for a cold?

Answer 2

Any signs of meningitis

Also children under 2 who seem more unwell than average cold - more at risk of pneumonia

Question 3

How long do symptoms of a cold last?

Answer 3

7-10 days

Can last up to 21 days in some circumstances

Question 4

Treatment options for a cold?

Answer 4

VIT C 
decongestants 
Paracetamol 
Steam inhalation 
Saline 
Ibuprofen/aspirin

Question 5

Can aspirin be used in children <16 years old?

Answer 5

No. Risk of Reye’s syndrome

Question 6

Evidence for vitamin C in treatment of colds?

Answer 6

Small EBM.

Thought to minimise time with the cold but do not prevent you from getting a cold

Question 7

Decongestants in children?

Answer 7

Yes >6 for max of 5 days

<6 no

Question 8

Which has the risk of congestive rebound (rhinitis medicamentosa)

• oral decongestants?
• nasal decongestants?

Answer 8

Nasal decongestant

Not to be used for pro longed period

Question 9

Decongestant cautions?

Answer 9

Diabetes 
Hypertension 
Heart disease 
Hyperthyroidism 
Raised Intra ocular pressure

Question 10

CONTRAINDICATIONS for decongestants ?

Answer 10

MOAI

risk of hypertensive crisis